If you are new to the importing business of the US, you need to be aware that there are a lot of restrictions and requirements. You need to be aware of all these to avoid any problem. Apart from that, you also need to work out with the customs forms to ensure duty-free working. Free Trade Agreements or FTA offers a list of products that are legal for entering the US.
Also, Harmonized Tariff Schedule Classification has become an essential aspect of today’s time for shipping to the US. To ensure any hassle-free trade, you must be aware of the tariff number of the product, which can eventually turn out to be pretty confusing.
Do you need a customs broker?
Customs clearance is one of the most important aspects, and the first thing you should consider. Importing to the US isn’t a small task. As a result, one will need to be extremely careful with it. You will need to analyze the value of your product and then determine whether or not you need a broker.
The customs broker usually has a guide to importing to the US, which makes it extremely easy to get things delivered. You will need to follow the US Customs and Border Protection or US Food and Drug Administration depending on the type of product you are to ship. In some cases, you will need to set up an account with the customs broker and proceed with document preparation. This will make it easier for you to carry the goods internationally.
Have all the documents ready
One of the best things that you can ever do with customs clearance is to prepare the documents. The documents have an important role to play in each shipment, which is why you should get it ready beforehand only. Some of the prominent documents that you will need to prepare to include the following
- Bill of Lading
- Customs/Clearance Invoice
- Commodity specific documents
- OGD Documents.
Pay the import duty fees and taxes
If you are dealing with goods, you will need to pay duty rates to CBP. These duty rates are, however, determined on the basis of products that will be coming into the US. Classification of the products has become an essential aspect in today’s world, which is why it should be taken care of. The customs broker is responsible for paying the duty fees to the authority on your behalf.